20 sec rule FED 7-3-1

[smoump]

Originally posted by mcrowder
Pete, there was NEVER a time where we rung up a strike on a batter for thinking he had been given ball four and taking a step or two toward first base before we said, "STRIKE!". Never ever. Why would you say that? That's something I would expect from any one of 2 current or 4 previous posters.

My original question centered around the and/or of the rule. I have never issued a strike for this. I am comfortable with a deliberate strike and if this timing is too slow for an impatient batter, so be it.

7-3-1 does say "The batter must keep at least one foot in the batter's box throughout the time at bat".

But common sense dictates that we do not call this a strike. However, Pete is correct in saying that years ago (96 ish) when I coached, this was a strict rule. Anytime they stepped out, it was a strike (assuming not meeting one of the exceptions). For umpires that were not working or understanding the rule then, may not be aware now of its existence.